Skip to main content
Skip to footer
This article is part of a series celebrating Boss Hunting’s favourite corners of the United States. Click here to see more.
For lovestruck travellers en route to the United States, we’re here to tell you that destinations for romance go well beyond a kiss atop the Empire State Building. From coast to coast, the USA is home to a plethora of charming towns, stunning natural landscapes, and luxurious resorts where couples can connect, indulge and relax.
Fortunately, the United States caters to every intimate whim imaginable, be that cosying up by a roaring fire, walking hand-in-hand along a secluded beach or sorting a spa day for the missus so you can enjoy a guilt free 18 holes.
From stunning coastlines to idyllic retreats, the romantic getaways are waiting to sweep couples off their feet.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape Cod in Massachusetts offers quaint villages, scenic coastal views and delightful accommodations catering to a variety of preferences and budgets. Some notable selections include the Platinum Pebble Boutique Inn and Chatham Bars Inn, both providing a comforting atmosphere with attentive services and delectable dining experiences.
Couples can embark on leisurely strolls along the Cape Cod National Seashore, boasting 40 miles of pristine beaches and hike or ride along the scenic Cape Cod Rail Trail. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Chatham and admire the historic lighthouse, or browse unique art galleries and boutiques in Provincetown. Indulge in delicious seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants found in Hyannis and Woods Hole. A sunset sail along the cape’s beautiful coast will undoubtedly make your romantic getaway even more memorable.
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is a breathtaking destination in the USA’s Southwest: renowned for its vibrant red rock formations, breathtaking sunsets and uninterrupted stargazing. The city’s popularity with domestic insiders has endowed it with a wealth of accommodation options ranging from L’Auberge de Sedona to Enchantment Resort. For more tranquil digs, Amara Resort & Spa — located a stone’s throw from uptown Sedona — is a popular option.
The city puts a range of world-class daytime activities within easy reach, particularly for active holidayers who love the great outdoors. Hike across awe-inspiring vistas at Red Rock State Park, or explore the ancient cliffside dwellings of the Palatki Heritage Site. The 12-mile stretch of Oak Creek Canyon, connecting Sedona with nearby Cottonwood to the southeast, is perfect for a relaxed scenic drive.
Visitors who prefer a bit of ‘town’ with their ‘country’ will find plenty to do in Sedona’s charming city centre. After a morning of state parks and ancient canyons, consider winding down in style at Mii Amo Spa. Sedona also offers no shortage of delightful dining options: Dahl & Di Luca is an unbeatable spot for rustic Italian cookery, while Elote Cafe — known for cuisine inspired by the markets of Mexico — pairs bold flavours with even bolder views.
Sedona’s crystal-clear night sky provides the perfect canvas for some post-dinner stargazing. For a truly memorable experience, consider booking a guided excursion with the likes of Pink Adventure Tours or Sedona Star Gazing.
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah’s enchanting cobblestone streets, moss-draped oak trees, and beautiful historic buildings set the perfect scene for romance. The city’s historic district offers numerous lodging options for couples, ranging from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. One popular choice is the Hamilton-Turner Inn, a stunning 1873 mansion that exudes Southern charm and elegance. For modern luxury Thompson Savannah, in the city’s up-and-coming Eastern Wharf district can’t be topped.
Savannah’s culinary scene is another highlight. Couples should consider indulging in an intimate dinner at the highly-acclaimed Olde Pink House, renowned for its Southern cuisine and service, followed by cocktails at Common Thread. For a more laid-back experience, head to Collins Quarter for brunch and coffee before a stroll through Forsyth Park. End the day with a glass of Champagne aboard the Savannah River Queen for a sunset river cruise.
Big Sky, Montana
Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Big Sky offers the perfect Montana retreat for couples looking to scratch the twin itches of relaxation and adventure.
Between November and mid-April, the area plays host to some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the western United States. The titular Big Sky Resort encompasses, across four mountains, 145 km of powdered terrain — perfect for skiers of every skill level. For couples who enjoy a less steeply inclined pace, the area’s many exciting hotels can organise dog sledding or night-time sleigh rides through snowy Montana backcountry.
Even in summer, Big Sky doesn’t lack for outdoor attractions. The area is acclaimed for its many hiking trails and fly-fishing hotspots, not to mention — an enviable proximity to Yellowstone National Park.
The breadth of scale one will encounter in Big Sky is handily reflected in the resort’s array of accommodations. The Summit Hotel and Lodge at Big Sky are perfect for a bona fide 5-star stay. But if you’re intrigued by lodgings that harken back to the days of early Western settlement, then 320 Guest Ranch also has you covered.
Kennebunkport, Maine
Kennebunkport, a sleepy enclave in southern Maine, lures couples with a mix of sandy shores, antiques, galleries, eateries, and quaint B&Bs. For that authentic Maine stay, the Waldo Emerson Inn oozes affordable luxury with the aesthetic to match. For those unconcerned with budget the Cape Arundel Inn & Resort is perhaps the finest accommodation in town.
Enjoy a scenic coastal drive or choose an easy walk along Bridle Path or Parson’s Way before an afternoon exploring historic Dock Square. Locale institution The Clam Shack is a must visit for its award-winning lobster rolls while David’s KPT offers lovely waterfront views and a sophisticated menu.
Outside the village, Earth at Hidden Pond is an upscale farm-to-table destination focusing on locally-sourced ingredients and innovative dishes that is attached to a retreat that goes by the same name.
Sonoma, California
With its mild climes and majestic landscape peppered by renowned wineries, Sonoma has always been one of California’s top destinations for a romantic couples’ getaway. Offering a more varied and laidback lens on winemaking to Napa, Sonoma is a picturesque setting to embark on a day of wine tasting and chic dining in the company of a loved one. Icons of the region, such as Benziger Family Winery and Buena Vista, offer a range of experiences at the cellar door.
A vast and temperate topography, it’s no surprise that Sonoma offers so many comfortable accommodations to choose from. For the ultimate whisk-them-off-their feet moment, consider treating your better half to a stay at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa. For something cosier and a little more approachable, MacArthur Place and Kenwood Inn & Spa are suitably compelling.
Lovers of moderation won’t feel left out either. Amidst Sonoma’s rolling foothills blanketed in vineyards, take advantage of the scenery with a range of outdoor activities. Hiking and cycling remain popular pastimes, while a hot air balloon excursion will make for a truly unforgettable afternoon. With such rugged coastal views, it’s easy to see why.
Washington, Virginia
Located in the heart of Virginia’s picturesque countryside, Washington offers an alluring small-town atmosphere, captivating surroundings and exceptional dining.
Washington is most renowned for the Inn at Little Washington, widely recognised as one of the finest dining experiences in the United States. This Michelin-starred restaurant also boasts luxurious accommodations so diners can retreat directly to their rooms for a recharge post lunch, before hitting the Theatre at Washington in the evening. If you can’t score a night at the Little Washington, Gay Street Inn offers five cozy rooms with modern amenities and stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from the inn’s spacious veranda.
For those seeking outdoor activities, the nearby Shenandoah National Park provides ample opportunity for hiking, wildlife spotting, and scenic drives. With over 500 miles of trails, there’s no shortage of options for couples of all fitness levels. Popular trails include the Old Rag Mountain hike, perfect for adventurous couples, and the gentler Limberlost Trail.
Telluride, Colorado
Nestled within the stunning San Juan Mountains, Telluride offers an unforgettable getaway for couples who prioritise adventure as much as they do romance.
Telluride offers a smorgasbord of year-round activities to get the adrenaline pumping. Winter months provide excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities at the Telluride Ski Resort, where 148 trails weave across 2,000 acres of snow-covered terrain. When the snow melts, couples can embark on picturesque hikes amidst the wildflowers in Alta Lakes and experience the majestic Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall. Outdoor enthusiasts can also partake in mountain biking, fly fishing, horse riding and whitewater rafting.
After a busy day, enjoy a peaceful walk through the town’s historic district, whet the whistle with a locally brewed craft ale, then sample Telluride’s eclectic culinary scene. Stay in town for the night at The Hotel Telluride or New Sheridan Hotel, or go lavish at Lumiere with Inspirato — offering ski-in/ski-out access and first-class amenities.
Charleston, South Carolina
Known throughout the USA for its rich heritage, natural beauty, and southern hospitality, it’s no wonder Charleston has come to embody the quintessential Deep South metropolis. Culturally inclined couples can take in the city’s colourful architecture and cobblestone streets — all set against the confluence of the Cooper and Ashley Rivers.
The city is renowned nationwide for its eclectic mixture of English, French, and West African influences: as couples are bound to discover in the city’s Historic District. Enjoy a leisurely stroll amidst one of the US’ largest collections of antebellum architecture.
Keen to escape the city? Then consider a quick getaway to the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: 20 minutes from downtown, it’s one of the last surviving southern plantations and a must-see for horticulture lovers.
If you’re looking to see as much of historic Charleston as possible, it’s a safe bet to situate yourself in the city centre. From Belmond Charleston Place to The Vendue there are no shortage of small, characterful properties to bed down in. For a grand old option — the kind that will whisk you straight back to 1793 — John Rutledge House is a must-stay.
In case it wasn’t already apparent, Charleston is a city teeming with rich historical tidbits. But beyond time-honoured landmarks in the vein of Fort Sumter, travelers with an eye for the aesthetic have plenty to check out in the form of Charleston’s contemporary cultural institutions.
Take a break from 18th century architecture and downhome southern cookery, with a trip to the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art — a fantastic non-profit museum, affiliated with South Carolina’s oldest public university.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Images of football jerseys and bustling Bourbon Street may be your first thought at the mention of New Orleans, however it’s a city with immense cultural significance, ripe for a romantic getaway.
Walk the Garden District by day and admire the antebellum mansions before a casual pick in Audubon Park. Spend the afternoon in the thriving French Quarter (on foot or by horse-drawn carriage), where couples can explore art galleries, antique shops, and delicious cuisine. A must-visit spot in the area is Café du Monde, famous for its beignets and café au lait. For a romantic dinner, consider Commander’s Palace, a classic New Orleans establishment known for its impeccable service and Creole fare.
When night falls it’s time to embrace the city’s rich musical heritage, enjoying jazz and blues performances at clubs such as Preservation Hall and Snug Harbor. The Steamboat Natchez offers brunch and dinner cruises with live jazz performances, providing an unforgettable experience complete with stunning views of the city. Kick your feet up in classic luxury at The Ritz-Carlton on Canal St or the award winning Maison de la Luz.
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Kailua-Kona located on the western coast of the Big Island takes the cake for show stopping scenery, stunning beaches, and crystal-clear waters, with a spot of whale watching to boot!
Serviced by the exceptionally easy Kona Airport, the Kailua-Kona area boasts the very best of island time, framed by awe-inspiring ocean and tropical mountain views. About 45 mins north of Kailua-Kona town is the extremely underrated Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, perfect for a private beach proposal, and the resulting nuptials. Closer to the action, the Polynesian-style Holualoa Inn, set on a lush 30-acre coffee estate, is an enchanting escape.
Embrace Kona’s rich history at historical sites like the Hulihe’e Palace and Mokuaikaua Church, then drop by the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary – a private reserve within a native Hawaiian forest – for a guided tour of the island’s diverse local flora and fauna. Finally, the ocean offers every activity you could dream of, from snorkeling and paddleboarding to deep sea fishing and intimate sunset cruise – easily the best way to see the stunning coastline.
This article is sponsored by VisitTheUSA.com.au and is part of a series celebrating Boss Hunting’s favourite corners of the United States. Click here to see more, and thank you for supporting the brands that support Boss Hunting.
